Prescribed fire operations begin today on Tahoe's West Shore

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TAHOE CITY, Calif. - With the snow also comes the season of prescribed fire around Lake Tahoe.

U.S. Forest Service fuels management crews will begin prescribed fire operations in the Timberland area of the West Shore on Tuesday, officials announced late Monday as the season's first winter storm continued to cover the Sierra in snow.

Crews anticipate burning three to 10 acres per day, for a total of 10 to 20 acres, conditions permitting, according to a USFS press release.

"Residents and visitors can expect to see smoke from this prescribed fire project area. The Forest Service strives to minimize the impacts of smoke on local communities," officials said. "Smoke-sensitive residents should consider staying indoors and keeping doors, windows and outside vents closed."

Forest Service staff will post road signs around areas affected by prescribed fire, according to the press release, and update the local fire information line at 530-543-2600, Ext. 6. Other federal, state and local fire management agencies may also be conducting prescribed fire work during this period.